EP2899845A1 - Charging device with dual antenna system and method for wireless charging of one or more hearing aids - Google Patents

Charging device with dual antenna system and method for wireless charging of one or more hearing aids Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2899845A1
EP2899845A1 EP15150249.9A EP15150249A EP2899845A1 EP 2899845 A1 EP2899845 A1 EP 2899845A1 EP 15150249 A EP15150249 A EP 15150249A EP 2899845 A1 EP2899845 A1 EP 2899845A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
antenna
magnetic field
charging circuit
switching elements
charger according
Prior art date
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Granted
Application number
EP15150249.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2899845B1 (en
Inventor
Sebastian Martius
Benjamin Sewiolo
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Siemens AG
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Siemens AG
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/30—Monitoring or testing of hearing aids, e.g. functioning, settings, battery power
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/27—Adaptation for use in or on movable bodies
    • H01Q1/273—Adaptation for carrying or wearing by persons or animals
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J50/00—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power
    • H02J50/10—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J50/00—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power
    • H02J50/40—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using two or more transmitting or receiving devices
    • H02J50/402—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using two or more transmitting or receiving devices the two or more transmitting or the two or more receiving devices being integrated in the same unit, e.g. power mats with several coils or antennas with several sub-antennas
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J50/00—Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power
    • H02J50/005—Mechanical details of housing or structure aiming to accommodate the power transfer means, e.g. mechanical integration of coils, antennas or transducers into emitting or receiving devices
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0042—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries characterised by the mechanical construction
    • H02J7/0044—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries characterised by the mechanical construction specially adapted for holding portable devices containing batteries
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/31—Aspects of the use of accumulators in hearing aids, e.g. rechargeable batteries or fuel cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/55—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired
    • H04R25/554—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired using a wireless connection, e.g. between microphone and amplifier or using Tcoils

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a charger for wireless charging of at least one hearing aid with a cylindrical container, an antenna for generating an alternating magnetic field in the container with electrical excitation and a charging circuit with which the antenna is electrically energized. Moreover, the present invention relates to a method for wireless charging of at least one hearing device.
  • Hearing aids are portable hearing aids that are used to care for the hearing impaired.
  • different types of hearing aids such as behind-the-ear hearing aids (BTE), hearing aid with external receiver (RIC: receiver in the canal) and in-the-ear hearing aids (IDO), e.g. Concha hearing aids or canal hearing aids (ITE, CIC).
  • BTE behind-the-ear hearing aids
  • RIC hearing aid with external receiver
  • IDO in-the-ear hearing aids
  • ITE canal hearing aids
  • the hearing aids listed by way of example are worn on the outer ear or in the ear canal.
  • bone conduction hearing aids, implantable or vibrotactile hearing aids are also available on the market. The stimulation of the damaged hearing takes place either mechanically or electrically.
  • Hearing aids have in principle as essential components an input transducer, an amplifier and an output transducer.
  • the input transducer is usually a sound receiver, z. As a microphone, and / or an electromagnetic receiver, for. B. an induction coil.
  • the output transducer is usually used as an electroacoustic transducer, z. As miniature speaker, or as an electromechanical transducer, z. B. bone conduction, realized.
  • the amplifier is usually integrated in a signal processing unit. This basic structure is in FIG. 1 shown using the example of a behind-the-ear hearing aid. In a hearing aid housing 21 for carrying behind the ear, one or more microphones 22 are incorporated for receiving the sound from the environment.
  • a signal processing unit 23 which is also integrated into the hearing aid housing 21, processes the microphone signals and amplifies them.
  • the output signal of the signal processing unit 23 is transmitted to a loudspeaker or listener 24, which outputs an acoustic signal.
  • the sound is optionally transmitted via a sound tube, which is fixed with an earmold in the ear canal, to the eardrum of the device carrier.
  • the power supply of the hearing device and in particular that of the signal processing unit 23 is effected by a battery 25 likewise integrated into the hearing device housing 21.
  • Hearing aids are usually still wired or charged via electrical contacts. This has two disadvantages. On the one hand, two contacts must be attached to the hearing aid itself, which are accessible to the outside and thus mechanically protected and / or must be switched potential-free. On the other hand, the hearing aid must be plugged into a special holder for charging, so that the electrical contacts can be made.
  • wireless charging a hearing aid For example, there is a prototype of a wireless charger from Humavox. Such a system has a kind of antenna that generates a circular field. Thus, the positioning of a hearing aid with a linearly polarized antenna in a plane (horizontal or vertical) independent of angle is possible. Should both levels be usable, this would require the use of a special antenna for the second level in the hearing aid itself, which in turn requires a certain amount of space in the hearing aid.
  • the publication DE 10 2004 012 058 B4 discloses producers of time-variable magnetic fields of a magnetic resonance apparatus with at least one gradient coil.
  • the generator has a high-frequency antenna element, which is designed as a so-called "birdcage antenna".
  • birdcage antenna for generating a homogeneous high-frequency field within one enclosed by her volume usually designed such that parallel to a cylinder jacket and equally spaced conductors are arranged, which are interconnected by end rings.
  • a vote in high and low pass filter areas by capacitances are introduced in each of the conductors or in the end rings between the conductors, so that at resonance results in a homogeneous high frequency field.
  • Embodiments of such birdcage antennas can also be found, for example, in the document US 4,680,548 ,
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a charger with which it is possible to charge a hearing device, which has a linearly polarized antenna, in every position of the hearing device in the charger.
  • a corresponding method for wireless charging of a hearing aid is to be provided.
  • the invention provides a method for wireless charging of at least one hearing device by providing a cylindrical container into which a birdcage antenna, in which in which rods are arranged parallel to a cylinder axis on a cylinder jacket and the ends of the rods are connected at the edges of the cylinder jacket in each case with an end ring is integrated, wherein in each of the rods of the birdcage antenna is arranged in each case a switching element, introducing the hearing aid in the container, alternately generating a circularly polarized magnetic field, wherein the switching elements are operated in a closed mode, and a linearly polarized magnetic field, wherein the switching elements are operated in an open mode, in the birdcage antenna and charging the hearing aid in at least one the two fields.
  • the charger has a birdcage antenna, which is energized so that alternately results in time a circularly polarized field and a linearly polarized field in its interior.
  • the magnetic field of the birdcage antenna over a predetermined period of time, which includes the closed and open mode of the switching elements of the antenna, field components in each spatial direction.
  • a linearly polarized antenna can be charged in any spatial position and orientation in the container or birdcage antenna of the charger.
  • the switching elements are each PIN diodes.
  • it can of course also be other power-resistant switching elements such as transistors, FETs, relays or MEMS.
  • the charging circuit has two individual sources and two amplifiers. This makes it possible to handle the energization of the antenna very flexible.
  • the charging circuit may include two matching networks. With these matching networks, the efficiency of the charging process can be optimized.
  • the sources are mutually offset by 90 ° connected to the end rings of the antenna. In this way, a circularly polarized magnetic field in the birdcage antenna can be generated favorably.
  • the matching networks are switched synchronously with the switching elements. This makes it possible to optimize an electrical adjustment in each switching mode of the switching elements.
  • the charging circuit may further comprise a phase shifter. Depending on the operating mode, the appropriate phase can be set on time.
  • the two sources each have a DDS (Direct Digital Synthesis) circuit. This makes it possible to synthesize very accurately suitable feed signals.
  • DDS Direct Digital Synthesis
  • the charging circuit may have only a single source connected to the antenna via a Wilkinson divider. In this way, a source can be saved and easy control of the birdcage antenna is feasible.
  • a hearing aid as related to FIG. 1 is shown by way of example, is to be loaded wirelessly.
  • a hearing aid has, for example, a linearly polarized antenna in the form of a linear coil.
  • energy is inductively coupled to charge. This can only be done by passing a component of the alternating magnetic field through the charging coil.
  • the invention provides that the magnetic field has time-varying spatial direction components in a charging area of a charger.
  • the two spatial directions of a plane should be generated by a circularly polarized and the other orthogonal spatial direction by an additional linear field.
  • a circularly polarizable and a linearly polarizable antenna must be used.
  • the birdcage antenna 1 In order to provide both types of magnetic field (linearly polarized and circularly polarized field), a so-called “birdcage antenna” is provided, which exemplifies the in FIG. 2 has shown wiring.
  • the birdcage antenna 1 usually has, as described above, on a cylinder jacket parallel to each other and equally spaced rod-shaped conductors 2, which are interconnected by end rings 3, 4. For example, 5 may be provided between each two adjacent straight ladders 2 in the end rings 3 and 4.
  • PIN diodes 6 are used in the bars or conductors 2 of the birdcage antenna.
  • other switching elements in particular electronic switches such as transistors may be used. This makes it possible to use this antenna once as a circular birdcage antenna when the switching elements or PIN diodes 6 are switched (conductive) (closed mode), and once as opposed coil pair of the end rings 3 and 4, when the switching elements or PIN diodes lock (open mode).
  • the two end rings 3 and 4 preferably satisfy the Helmholtz condition, according to which they are arranged at a distance of their radius from each other on the same axis and current flows in the same direction. This results in a homogeneous magnetic field between the two end rings 3 and 4.
  • a source 10 is fed via an amplifier 11 and a matching network 12 into a first feed-in 13, which is part of the lower end ring 4 is. It is a two-port, which is formed by the terminals of one of the capacitors 5.
  • the second source 9 feeds via a phase shifter 14, an amplifier 15 and a matching network 16 a signal into a second feed-in 17, which is part of the upper end ring 3. It is also a two-port, which is formed by the terminals of a capacitor 5 of the end ring 3.
  • the sources 9 and 10 are connected at a 90 ° angle to each other at the end rings 3, 4 of the birdcage antenna. This means that the two feed ports 13 and 17 to each other at an angle of 90 ° with respect to the axis of rotation of the birdcage antenna.
  • the birdcage antenna in a so-called “birdcage mode” (closed mode), in which the rods provide the relevant magnetic field, and in a so-called “Helmholtz mode” (Offen Mode).
  • birdcage mode closed mode
  • Helmholtz mode Offen Mode
  • the phase shifter 14 is switched to 90 ° in birdcage mode and 0 ° in Helmholtz mode.
  • the amplitude of both signals from the sources 9, 10 can be weighted depending on the load case.
  • only one power source is used for charging. This can be split over a so-called Wilkinson divider on both connection points, ie the feed ports 13 and 17. Furthermore, it is possible to use 10 DDS switching modules (direct digital synthesis) for both sources 9, 10. In this case, one could dispense with the adjustable phase shifter 14, because corresponding phase shifts can already be taken into account in the control of the DDS circuits.
  • FIG. 3 shows the basic structure of a charger according to the invention.
  • the charger has a container 18 which is cylindrical. In the wall of the container 18, the birdcage antenna 1 is integrated.
  • a charging circuit 19 is located at the bottom of the container 18.
  • the charging circuit 19 includes the above components 9 to 12 and 14 to 16.
  • the charging circuit 19 may of course be arranged arbitrarily on the container 18.
  • a hearing aid to be loaded or more can be introduced into the container 18 in any orientation and position and it is always an effective loading possible. The loading of one or more hearing aids is thus independent of their position and orientation within the charging system. This ensures a high level of user-friendliness of the charging system.

Abstract

Das Laden von Hörgeräten soll komfortabler gestaltet werden. Daher wird ein Ladegerät zum drahtlosen Laden eines Hörgeräts mit einem zylindrischen Behälter, einer Antenne (1) zum Erzeugen eines magnetischen Wechselfelds in dem Behälter bei elektrischer Anregung und einer Ladeschaltung (9 bis 12 und 14 bis 16), mit der die Antenne elektrisch anregbar ist, bereitgestellt. Die Antenne (1) ist als Birdcage-Antenne, bei der Stäbe (2) parallel zu einer Zylinderachse auf einem Zylindermantel angeordnet und die Enden der Stäbe (2) an den Rändern des Zylindermantels jeweils mit einem Endring (3, 4) verbunden sind, ausgebildet und in den Behälter integriert. In jedem der Stäbe (2) der Antenne ist jeweils ein Schaltelement (6) angeordnet. Mit der Ladeschaltung ist in der Antenne abwechselnd ein zirkulares Magnetfeld, wobei die Schaltelemente (6) in einem Geschlossen-Modus betrieben werden, und ein lineares Magnetfeld, wobei die Schaltelemente in einem Offen-Modus betrieben werden, erzeugbar.The loading of hearing aids should be made more comfortable. Therefore, a charger for wireless charging a hearing aid with a cylindrical container, an antenna (1) for generating an alternating magnetic field in the container with electrical excitation and a charging circuit (9 to 12 and 14 to 16), with which the antenna is electrically energized , provided. The antenna (1) is arranged as a birdcage antenna, in which rods (2) are arranged parallel to a cylinder axis on a cylinder jacket and the ends of the rods (2) at the edges of the cylinder jacket are each connected to an end ring (3, 4), trained and integrated into the container. In each of the rods (2) of the antenna, a switching element (6) is arranged in each case. With the charging circuit in the antenna is alternately a circular magnetic field, wherein the switching elements (6) are operated in a closed mode, and a linear magnetic field, wherein the switching elements are operated in an open mode, generated.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Ladegerät zum drahtlosen Laden mindestens eines Hörgeräts mit einem zylindrischen Behälter, einer Antenne zum Erzeugen eines magnetischen Wechselfelds in dem Behälter bei elektrischer Anregung und einer Ladeschaltung, mit der die Antenne elektrisch anregbar ist. Darüber hinaus betrifft die vorliegende Erfindung ein Verfahren zum drahtlosen Laden mindestens eines Hörgeräts.The present invention relates to a charger for wireless charging of at least one hearing aid with a cylindrical container, an antenna for generating an alternating magnetic field in the container with electrical excitation and a charging circuit with which the antenna is electrically energized. Moreover, the present invention relates to a method for wireless charging of at least one hearing device.

Hörgeräte sind tragbare Hörvorrichtungen, die zur Versorgung von Schwerhörenden dienen. Um den zahlreichen individuellen Bedürfnissen entgegenzukommen, werden unterschiedliche Bauformen von Hörgeräten wie Hinter-dem-Ohr-Hörgeräte (HdO), Hörgerät mit externem Hörer (RIC: receiver in the canal) und In-dem-Ohr-Hörgeräte (IdO), z.B. auch Concha-Hörgeräte oder Kanal-Hörgeräte (ITE, CIC), bereitgestellt. Die beispielhaft aufgeführten Hörgeräte werden am Außenohr oder im Gehörgang getragen. Darüber hinaus stehen auf dem Markt aber auch Knochenleitungshörhilfen, implantierbare oder vibrotaktile Hörhilfen zur Verfügung. Dabei erfolgt die Stimulation des geschädigten Gehörs entweder mechanisch oder elektrisch.Hearing aids are portable hearing aids that are used to care for the hearing impaired. In order to meet the numerous individual needs, different types of hearing aids such as behind-the-ear hearing aids (BTE), hearing aid with external receiver (RIC: receiver in the canal) and in-the-ear hearing aids (IDO), e.g. Concha hearing aids or canal hearing aids (ITE, CIC). The hearing aids listed by way of example are worn on the outer ear or in the ear canal. In addition, bone conduction hearing aids, implantable or vibrotactile hearing aids are also available on the market. The stimulation of the damaged hearing takes place either mechanically or electrically.

Hörgeräte besitzen prinzipiell als wesentliche Komponenten einen Eingangswandler, einen Verstärker und einen Ausgangswandler. Der Eingangswandler ist in der Regel ein Schallempfänger, z. B. ein Mikrofon, und/oder ein elektromagnetischer Empfänger, z. B. eine Induktionsspule. Der Ausgangswandler ist meist als elektroakustischer Wandler, z. B. Miniaturlautsprecher, oder als elektromechanischer Wandler, z. B. Knochenleitungshörer, realisiert. Der Verstärker ist üblicherweise in eine Signalverarbeitungseinheit integriert. Dieser prinzipielle Aufbau ist in FIG 1 am Beispiel eines Hinter-dem-Ohr-Hörgeräts dargestellt. In ein Hörgerätegehäuse 21 zum Tragen hinter dem Ohr sind ein oder mehrere Mikrofone 22 zur Aufnahme des Schalls aus der Umgebung eingebaut. Eine Signalverarbeitungseinheit 23, die ebenfalls in das Hörgerätegehäuse 21 integriert ist, verarbeitet die Mikrofonsignale und verstärkt sie. Das Ausgangssignal der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 23 wird an einen Lautsprecher bzw. Hörer 24 übertragen, der ein akustisches Signal ausgibt. Der Schall wird gegebenenfalls über einen Schallschlauch, der mit einer Otoplastik im Gehörgang fixiert ist, zum Trommelfell des Geräteträgers übertragen. Die Energieversorgung des Hörgeräts und insbesondere die der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 23 erfolgt durch eine ebenfalls ins Hörgerätegehäuse 21 integrierte Batterie 25.Hearing aids have in principle as essential components an input transducer, an amplifier and an output transducer. The input transducer is usually a sound receiver, z. As a microphone, and / or an electromagnetic receiver, for. B. an induction coil. The output transducer is usually used as an electroacoustic transducer, z. As miniature speaker, or as an electromechanical transducer, z. B. bone conduction, realized. The amplifier is usually integrated in a signal processing unit. This basic structure is in FIG. 1 shown using the example of a behind-the-ear hearing aid. In a hearing aid housing 21 for carrying behind the ear, one or more microphones 22 are incorporated for receiving the sound from the environment. A signal processing unit 23, which is also integrated into the hearing aid housing 21, processes the microphone signals and amplifies them. The output signal of the signal processing unit 23 is transmitted to a loudspeaker or listener 24, which outputs an acoustic signal. The sound is optionally transmitted via a sound tube, which is fixed with an earmold in the ear canal, to the eardrum of the device carrier. The power supply of the hearing device and in particular that of the signal processing unit 23 is effected by a battery 25 likewise integrated into the hearing device housing 21.

Hörgeräte werden bislang meist noch drahtgebunden bzw. über elektrische Kontakte geladen. Dies hat zwei Nachteile. Zum einen müssen für das Laden am Hörgerät selbst zwei Kontakte angebracht werden, die nach außen zugänglich sind und somit mechanisch geschützt und/oder potenzialfrei geschaltet werden müssen. Zum anderen muss das Hörgerät für das Laden in eine spezielle Halterung gesteckt werden, damit die elektrischen Kontakte hergestellt werden können.Hearing aids are usually still wired or charged via electrical contacts. This has two disadvantages. On the one hand, two contacts must be attached to the hearing aid itself, which are accessible to the outside and thus mechanically protected and / or must be switched potential-free. On the other hand, the hearing aid must be plugged into a special holder for charging, so that the electrical contacts can be made.

Es wurde aber auch bereits drahtloses Laden eines Hörgeräts vorgeschlagen. Beispielsweise gibt es von der Firma Humavox einen Prototypen eines drahtlosen Ladegeräts. Ein solches System besitzt eine Art Antenne, die ein zirkulares Feld erzeugt. Damit ist die Positionierung eines Hörgeräts mit einer linear polarisierten Antenne in einer Ebene (horizontal beziehungsweise vertikal) winkelunabhängig möglich. Sollten beide Ebenen nutzbar sein, müsste hierzu im Hörgerät selbst auch eine spezielle Antenne für die zweite Ebene verwendet werden, die wiederum einen gewissen Platz im Hörgerät benötigt.But it has also been suggested wireless charging a hearing aid. For example, there is a prototype of a wireless charger from Humavox. Such a system has a kind of antenna that generates a circular field. Thus, the positioning of a hearing aid with a linearly polarized antenna in a plane (horizontal or vertical) independent of angle is possible. Should both levels be usable, this would require the use of a special antenna for the second level in the hearing aid itself, which in turn requires a certain amount of space in the hearing aid.

Aus der Druckschrift DE 10 2004 012 058 B4 sind Erzeuger zeitvariabler Magnetfelder eines Magnetresonanzgeräts mit wenigstens einer Gradientenspule bekannt. Der Erzeuger besitzt ein Hochfrequenzantennenelement, das als so genannte "Birdcage-Antenne" ausgebildet ist. Dabei ist eine Birdcage-Antenne zum Erzeugen eines homogenen Hochfrequenzfelds innerhalb eines von ihr umschlossenen Volumens in der Regel derart gestaltet, dass auf einem Zylindermantel zueinander parallel und gleich beabstandete Leiter angeordnet sind, die durch Endringe miteinander verbunden sind. Dabei erfolgt eine Abstimmung in Hoch- und Tiefpassfilterbereiche, indem Kapazitäten in jedem der Leiter oder in den Endringen zwischen den Leitern eingebracht sind, sodass bei Resonanz ein homogenes Hochfrequenzfeld resultiert. Ausführungsformen solcher Birdcage-Antennen finden sich auch beispielsweise in der Druckschrift US 4 680 548 .The publication DE 10 2004 012 058 B4 discloses producers of time-variable magnetic fields of a magnetic resonance apparatus with at least one gradient coil. The generator has a high-frequency antenna element, which is designed as a so-called "birdcage antenna". Here is a birdcage antenna for generating a homogeneous high-frequency field within one enclosed by her volume usually designed such that parallel to a cylinder jacket and equally spaced conductors are arranged, which are interconnected by end rings. In this case, a vote in high and low pass filter areas by capacitances are introduced in each of the conductors or in the end rings between the conductors, so that at resonance results in a homogeneous high frequency field. Embodiments of such birdcage antennas can also be found, for example, in the document US 4,680,548 ,

Die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht darin, ein Ladegerät bereitzustellen, mit dem das Laden eines Hörgeräts, welches eine linear polarisierte Antenne aufweist, in jeder Lage des Hörgeräts in dem Ladegerät möglich ist. Darüber hinaus soll ein entsprechendes Verfahren zum drahtlosen Laden eines Hörgeräts bereitgestellt werden.The object of the present invention is to provide a charger with which it is possible to charge a hearing device, which has a linearly polarized antenna, in every position of the hearing device in the charger. In addition, a corresponding method for wireless charging of a hearing aid is to be provided.

Erfindungsgemäß wird diese Aufgabe gelöst durch ein Ladegerät zum drahtlosen Laden mindestens eines Hörgeräts mit einem zylindrischen Behälter, einer Antenne zum Erzeugen eines magnetischen Wechselfelds in dem Behälter bei elektrischer Anregung, einer Ladeschaltung, mit der die Antenne elektrisch anregbar ist, wobei die Antenne als Birdcage-Antenne, bei der Stäbe parallel zu einer Zylinderachse auf einem Zylindermantel angeordnet und die Enden der Stäbe an den Rändern des Zylindermantels jeweils mit einem Endring verbunden sind, ausgebildet und in den Behälter integriert ist, in jedem der Stäbe der Antenne jeweils ein Schaltelement angeordnet ist und mit der Ladeschaltung in der Antenne abwechselnd ein zirkulares Magnetfeld, wobei die Schaltelemente in einem Geschlossen-Modus betrieben werden, und ein lineares Magnetfeld, wobei die Schaltelemente in einem Offen-Modus betrieben werden, erzeugbar ist.According to the invention, this object is achieved by a charger for wireless charging of at least one hearing device with a cylindrical container, an antenna for generating an alternating magnetic field in the container with electrical excitation, a charging circuit with which the antenna is electrically excitable, wherein the antenna as birdcage Antenna in which rods arranged parallel to a cylinder axis on a cylinder jacket and the ends of the rods are connected at the edges of the cylinder jacket in each case with an end ring, formed and integrated into the container, in each of the rods of the antenna is arranged in each case a switching element and alternating with the charging circuit in the antenna, a circular magnetic field, wherein the switching elements are operated in a closed mode, and a linear magnetic field, wherein the switching elements are operated in an open mode, can be generated.

Darüber hinaus ist erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen ein Verfahren zum drahtlosen Laden mindestens eines Hörgeräts durch Bereitstellen eines zylindrischen Behälters, in den eine Birdcage-Antenne, bei der Stäbe parallel zu einer Zylinderachse auf einem Zylindermantel angeordnet und die Enden der Stäbe an den Rändern des Zylindermantels jeweils mit einem Endring verbunden sind, integriert ist, wobei in jedem der Stäbe der Birdcage-Antenne jeweils ein Schaltelement angeordnet ist, Einbringen des Hörgeräts in den Behälter, abwechselndes Erzeugen eines zirkular polarisierten Magnetfelds, wobei die Schaltelemente in einem Geschlossen-Modus betrieben werden, und eines linear polarisierten Magnetfelds, wobei die Schaltelemente in einem Offen-Modus betrieben werden, in der Birdcage-Antenne und Laden des Hörgeräts in mindestens einem der beiden Felder.In addition, the invention provides a method for wireless charging of at least one hearing device by providing a cylindrical container into which a birdcage antenna, in which in which rods are arranged parallel to a cylinder axis on a cylinder jacket and the ends of the rods are connected at the edges of the cylinder jacket in each case with an end ring is integrated, wherein in each of the rods of the birdcage antenna is arranged in each case a switching element, introducing the hearing aid in the container, alternately generating a circularly polarized magnetic field, wherein the switching elements are operated in a closed mode, and a linearly polarized magnetic field, wherein the switching elements are operated in an open mode, in the birdcage antenna and charging the hearing aid in at least one the two fields.

In vorteilhafter Weise besitzt also das Ladegerät eine Birdcage-Antenne, welche so bestromt wird, dass sich zeitlich abwechselnd ein zirkular polarisiertes Feld und ein linear polarisiertes Feld in ihrem Innenraum ergibt. Damit besitzt das magnetische Feld der Birdcage-Antenne über einen vorgegebenen Zeitraum hinweg, der den Geschlossen- und Offen-Modus der Schaltelemente der Antenne umfasst, Feldkomponenten in jeder Raumrichtung. Dies bedeutet, dass eine linear polarisierte Antenne in jeder beliebigen räumlichen Position und Ausrichtung in dem Behälter beziehungsweise der Birdcage-Antenne des Ladegeräts geladen werden kann.Advantageously, therefore, the charger has a birdcage antenna, which is energized so that alternately results in time a circularly polarized field and a linearly polarized field in its interior. Thus, the magnetic field of the birdcage antenna over a predetermined period of time, which includes the closed and open mode of the switching elements of the antenna, field components in each spatial direction. This means that a linearly polarized antenna can be charged in any spatial position and orientation in the container or birdcage antenna of the charger.

Vorzugsweise handelt es sich bei den Schaltelementen jeweils um PIN-Dioden. Grundsätzlich kann es sich natürlich auch um andere leistungsfeste Schaltelemente wie beispielsweise Transistoren, FETs, Relais oder MEMS handeln.Preferably, the switching elements are each PIN diodes. In principle, it can of course also be other power-resistant switching elements such as transistors, FETs, relays or MEMS.

Vorteilhafterweise besitzt die Ladeschaltung zwei einzelne Quellen und zwei Verstärker. Hierdurch lässt sich die Bestromung der Antenne sehr flexibel handhaben.Advantageously, the charging circuit has two individual sources and two amplifiers. This makes it possible to handle the energization of the antenna very flexible.

Darüber hinaus kann die Ladeschaltung zwei Anpassnetzwerke umfassen. Mit diesen Anpassnetzwerken lässt sich der Wirkungsgrad des Ladeprozesses optimieren.In addition, the charging circuit may include two matching networks. With these matching networks, the efficiency of the charging process can be optimized.

Bei einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung sind die Quellen gegeneinander um 90° versetzt an den Endringen der Antenne angeschlossen. Auf diese Weise lässt sich günstig ein zirkular polarisiertes magnetisches Feld in der Birdcage-Antenne erzeugen.In a further advantageous embodiment, the sources are mutually offset by 90 ° connected to the end rings of the antenna. In this way, a circularly polarized magnetic field in the birdcage antenna can be generated favorably.

Günstigerweise werden die Anpassnetzwerke synchron mit den Schaltelementen geschaltet. Damit ist es möglich, eine elektrische Anpassung in jedem Schaltmodus der Schaltelemente zu optimieren.Conveniently, the matching networks are switched synchronously with the switching elements. This makes it possible to optimize an electrical adjustment in each switching mode of the switching elements.

Die Ladeschaltung kann ferner einen Phasenschieber aufweisen. Damit lässt sich je nach Betriebsmodus die geeignete Phase zeitgerecht einstellen.The charging circuit may further comprise a phase shifter. Depending on the operating mode, the appropriate phase can be set on time.

In einer speziellen Ausgestaltung weisen die zwei Quellen jeweils einen DDS-Schaltkreis (Direct Digital Synthesis) auf. Damit lassen sich sehr genau geeignete Einspeisesignale synthetisieren.In a specific embodiment, the two sources each have a DDS (Direct Digital Synthesis) circuit. This makes it possible to synthesize very accurately suitable feed signals.

In einer alternativen Ausgestaltungsform kann die Ladeschaltung nur eine einzige Quelle aufweisen, die über einen Wilkinson-Teiler an die Antenne angeschlossen ist. Auf diese Weise lässt sich eine Quelle einsparen und eine einfache Ansteuerung der Birdcage-Antenne ist realisierbar.In an alternative embodiment, the charging circuit may have only a single source connected to the antenna via a Wilkinson divider. In this way, a source can be saved and easy control of the birdcage antenna is feasible.

Die vorliegende Erfindung wird nun anhand der beigefügten Zeichnungen näher erläutert, in denen zeigen:

FIG 1
den prinzipiellen Aufbau eines Hörgeräts gemäß dem Stand der Technik,
FIG 2
eine Schaltungsskizze eines erfindungsgemäßen Ladegeräts und
FIG 3
die Skizze eines Ladegeräts gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung.
The present invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1
the basic structure of a hearing aid according to the prior art,
FIG. 2
a circuit diagram of a charger according to the invention and
FIG. 3
the sketch of a charger according to the present invention.

Die nachfolgend näher geschilderten Ausführungsbeispiele stellen bevorzugte Ausführungsformen der vorliegenden Erfindung dar.The embodiments described in more detail below represent preferred embodiments of the present invention.

Ein Hörgerät, wie es im Zusammenhang mit FIG 1 beispielhaft gezeigt ist, soll drahtlos geladen werden. Ein derartiges Hörgerät besitzt dazu beispielsweise eine linear polarisierte Antenne in Form einer linearen Spule. In diese Spule, die in FIG 1 nicht dargestellt ist, wird zum Laden Energie induktiv eingekoppelt. Dies kann nur dadurch geschehen, dass eine Komponente des magnetischen Wechselfelds durch die Ladespule hindurchführt.A hearing aid, as related to FIG. 1 is shown by way of example, is to be loaded wirelessly. Such a hearing aid has, for example, a linearly polarized antenna in the form of a linear coil. In this coil, which in FIG. 1 is not shown, energy is inductively coupled to charge. This can only be done by passing a component of the alternating magnetic field through the charging coil.

In dem Ladegerät soll keine feste Ladeposition vorgegeben werden, um die Handhabung zu vereinfachen. Daher kann nicht sichergestellt werden, in welche Richtung eine linear polarisierte Empfangsantenne eines zu ladenden Hörgeräts weist. Daher ist erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen, dass das Magnetfeld in einem Ladebereich eines Ladegeräts zeitlich wechselnde Raumrichtungskomponenten aufweist. Insbesondere sollen die beiden Raumrichtungen einer Ebene durch ein zirkular polarisiertes und die weitere dazu orthogonale Raumrichtung durch ein zusätzliches lineares Feld erzeugt werden. Dazu muss also eine zirkular polarisierbare und eine linear polarisierbare Antenne verwendet werden.In the charger no fixed loading position should be specified to facilitate handling. Therefore, it can not be ascertained in which direction a linearly polarized receiving antenna of a hearing device to be charged points. Therefore, the invention provides that the magnetic field has time-varying spatial direction components in a charging area of a charger. In particular, the two spatial directions of a plane should be generated by a circularly polarized and the other orthogonal spatial direction by an additional linear field. For this purpose, a circularly polarizable and a linearly polarizable antenna must be used.

Um beide Magnetfeldtypen (linear polarisiertes und zirkular polarisiertes Feld) bereitstellen zu können, ist eine so genannte "Birdcage-Antenne" vorgesehen, die beispielhaft die in FIG 2 dargestellte Beschaltung aufweist. Die Birdcage-Antenne 1 weist üblicherweise, wie eingangs beschrieben, auf einem Zylindermantel zueinander parallel und gleich beabstandete stabförmige Leiter 2 auf, die durch Endringe 3, 4 miteinander verbunden sind. Beispielsweise können in den Endringen 3 und 4 Kapazitäten 5 zwischen jeweils zwei benachbarten geraden Leitern 2 vorgesehen sein.In order to provide both types of magnetic field (linearly polarized and circularly polarized field), a so-called "birdcage antenna" is provided, which exemplifies the in FIG. 2 has shown wiring. The birdcage antenna 1 usually has, as described above, on a cylinder jacket parallel to each other and equally spaced rod-shaped conductors 2, which are interconnected by end rings 3, 4. For example, 5 may be provided between each two adjacent straight ladders 2 in the end rings 3 and 4.

In den Stäben beziehungsweise Leitern 2 der Birdcage-Antenne werden PIN-Dioden 6 eingesetzt. Alternativ können auch andere Schaltelemente, insbesondere elektronische Schalter wie Transistoren verwendet werden. Dadurch ist es möglich, diese Antenne einmal als zirkulare Birdcage-Antenne zu verwenden, wenn die Schaltelemente beziehungsweise PIN-Dioden 6 geschaltet (leitend) sind (Geschlossen-Modus), und einmal als gegenüberliegendes Spulenpaar aus den Endringen 3 und 4, wenn die Schaltelemente beziehungsweise PIN-Dioden sperren (Offen-Modus).In the bars or conductors 2 of the birdcage antenna PIN diodes 6 are used. Alternatively, other switching elements, in particular electronic switches such as transistors may be used. This makes it possible to use this antenna once as a circular birdcage antenna when the switching elements or PIN diodes 6 are switched (conductive) (closed mode), and once as opposed coil pair of the end rings 3 and 4, when the switching elements or PIN diodes lock (open mode).

Vorzugsweise genügen die beiden Endringe 3 und 4 der Helmholtz-Bedingung, wonach sie im Abstand ihres Radius auf gleicher Achse voneinander entfernt angeordnet sind und gleichsinnig von Strom durchflossen werden. Damit ergibt sich zwischen den beiden Endringen 3 und 4 ein homogenes Magnetfeld.The two end rings 3 and 4 preferably satisfy the Helmholtz condition, according to which they are arranged at a distance of their radius from each other on the same axis and current flows in the same direction. This results in a homogeneous magnetic field between the two end rings 3 and 4.

Zwischen beiden Antennentypen, nämlich linear polarisierter Sendeantenne (Endringe 3 und 4) und zirkular polarisierter Sendeantenne (Stäbe 2) wird dann abwechselnd hin- und hergeschaltet. Hierzu ist zu beachten, dass der Ladekondensator nach dem Gleichrichter im Hörgerät entsprechend der Umschaltzeit ausreichend groß gewählt wird.Between both types of antenna, namely linearly polarized transmitting antenna (end rings 3 and 4) and circularly polarized transmitting antenna (bars 2) is then alternately switched back and forth. It should be noted that the charging capacitor is selected after the rectifier in the hearing aid according to the switching time sufficiently large.

Da somit im Inneren der Birdcage-Antenne 1 einmal ein lineares und zum anderen ein zirkulares Magnetfeld vorherrscht, liegen zeitlich verteilt im gesamten Inneren der Birdcage-Antenne Magnetfeldkomponenten in alle drei Raumrichtungen vor. Dies wiederum bedeutet, dass sowohl eine vertikal ausgerichtete Empfangsantenne 7 als auch eine horizontal ausgerichtete Empfangsantenne 8 in dem wechselnden Magnetfeld Energie aufnehmen kann. In FIG 2 sind diese Empfangsantennen 7, 8 symbolisch ohne Hörgerät dargestellt.Since a linear magnetic field and, on the other hand, a circular magnetic field prevail in the interior of the birdcage antenna 1, magnetic field components are present in all three spatial directions in a temporally distributed manner in the entire interior of the birdcage antenna. This in turn means that both a vertically oriented receiving antenna 7 and a horizontally oriented receiving antenna 8 can absorb energy in the changing magnetic field. In FIG. 2 these receiving antennas 7, 8 are shown symbolically without hearing aid.

Zur Ansteuerung der Birdcage-Antenne 1 werden hier zwei einzelne Quellen 9, 10 verwendet. Von der einen Quelle 10 wird über einen Verstärker 11 und ein Anpassnetzwerk 12 ein Signal in ein erstes Einspeistor 13 eingespeist, welches Teil des unteren Endrings 4 ist. Es handelt sich um ein Zweitor, das durch die Anschlüsse eines der Kondensatoren 5 gebildet ist.To control the birdcage antenna 1, two individual sources 9, 10 are used here. From a source 10, a signal is fed via an amplifier 11 and a matching network 12 into a first feed-in 13, which is part of the lower end ring 4 is. It is a two-port, which is formed by the terminals of one of the capacitors 5.

Die zweite Quelle 9 speist über einen Phasenschieber 14, einen Verstärker 15 und ein Anpassnetzwerk 16 ein Signal in ein zweites Einspeistor 17 ein, welches Teil des oberen Endrings 3 ist. Es handelt sich hier ebenfalls um ein Zweitor, das durch die Anschlüsse eines Kondensators 5 des Endrings 3 gebildet ist.The second source 9 feeds via a phase shifter 14, an amplifier 15 and a matching network 16 a signal into a second feed-in 17, which is part of the upper end ring 3. It is also a two-port, which is formed by the terminals of a capacitor 5 of the end ring 3.

Die Quellen 9 und 10 werden in einem 90°-Winkel zueinander an den Endringen 3, 4 der Birdcage-Antenne angeschlossen. Dies bedeutet, dass die beiden Einspeistore 13 und 17 zueinander einen Winkel von 90° bezogen auf die Rotationsachse der Birdcage-Antenne aufweisen.The sources 9 and 10 are connected at a 90 ° angle to each other at the end rings 3, 4 of the birdcage antenna. This means that the two feed ports 13 and 17 to each other at an angle of 90 ° with respect to the axis of rotation of the birdcage antenna.

Durch die PIN-Dioden 6 oder anderen Schaltelemente kann die Birdcage-Antenne in einen so genannten "Birdcage-Modus" (Geschlossen-Modus), in dem die Stäbe das maßgebliche Magnetfeld liefern, und in einen so genannten "Helmholtz-Modus" (Offen-Modus) geschaltet werden. Zum Laden wird ständig zwischen beiden Modi hin- und hergeschaltet. Deswegen wird der Phasenschieber 14 im Birdcage-Modus auf 90° und im Helmholtz-Modus auf 0° geschaltet. Darüber hinaus kann die Amplitude beider Signale aus den Quellen 9, 10 je nach Lastfall gewichtet werden.Through the PIN diodes 6 or other switching elements, the birdcage antenna in a so-called "birdcage mode" (closed mode), in which the rods provide the relevant magnetic field, and in a so-called "Helmholtz mode" (Offen Mode). For charging is constantly switched between the two modes. Therefore, the phase shifter 14 is switched to 90 ° in birdcage mode and 0 ° in Helmholtz mode. In addition, the amplitude of both signals from the sources 9, 10 can be weighted depending on the load case.

Gemäß einer alternativen Ausführungsform wird nur eine Stromquelle für das Laden benutzt. Diese kann über einen so genannten Wilkinson-Teiler auf beide Anschlusspunkte, d. h. die Einspeistore 13 und 17, aufgespalten werden. Ferner ist es möglich, für beide Quellen 9, 10 DDS-Schaltbausteine (Direct Digital Synthesis) einzusetzen. In diesem Fall könnte man auf den einstellbaren Phasenschieber 14 verzichten, weil entsprechende Phasenverschiebungen bereits in der Ansteuerung der DDS-Schaltkreise berücksichtigt werden können.According to an alternative embodiment, only one power source is used for charging. This can be split over a so-called Wilkinson divider on both connection points, ie the feed ports 13 and 17. Furthermore, it is possible to use 10 DDS switching modules (direct digital synthesis) for both sources 9, 10. In this case, one could dispense with the adjustable phase shifter 14, because corresponding phase shifts can already be taken into account in the control of the DDS circuits.

FIG 3 zeigt den prinzipiellen Aufbau eines erfindungsgemäßen Ladegeräts. Das Ladegerät besitzt einen Behälter 18, der zylinderförmig ist. In die Wand des Behälters 18 ist die Birdcage-Antenne 1 integriert. Im Beispiel von FIG 3 befindet sich eine Ladeschaltung 19 am Boden des Behälters 18. Die Ladeschaltung 19 beinhaltet die obigen Komponenten 9 bis 12 und 14 bis 16. Die Ladeschaltung 19 kann natürlich beliebig an dem Behälter 18 angeordnet sein. In jedem Fall kann ein zu ladendes Hörgerät oder auch mehrere in den Behälter 18 in beliebiger Orientierung und Position eingebracht werden und es ist stets ein effektives Laden möglich. Das Laden von einem oder mehreren Hörgeräten ist also von deren Position und Ausrichtung innerhalb des Ladesystems unabhängig. Damit ist eine hohe Bedienfreundlichkeit des Ladesystems gegeben. FIG. 3 shows the basic structure of a charger according to the invention. The charger has a container 18 which is cylindrical. In the wall of the container 18, the birdcage antenna 1 is integrated. In the example of FIG. 3 a charging circuit 19 is located at the bottom of the container 18. The charging circuit 19 includes the above components 9 to 12 and 14 to 16. The charging circuit 19 may of course be arranged arbitrarily on the container 18. In any case, a hearing aid to be loaded or more can be introduced into the container 18 in any orientation and position and it is always an effective loading possible. The loading of one or more hearing aids is thus independent of their position and orientation within the charging system. This ensures a high level of user-friendliness of the charging system.

Claims (10)

Ladegerät zum drahtlosen Laden mindestens eines Hörgeräts (21 bis 25) mit - einem zylindrischen Behälter (18), - einer Antenne (1) zum Erzeugen eines magnetischen Wechselfelds in dem Behälter (18) bei elektrischer Anregung, - einer Ladeschaltung (19), mit der die Antenne (1) elektrisch anregbar ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass - die Antenne (1) als Birdcage-Antenne, bei der Stäbe (2) parallel zu einer Zylinderachse auf einem Zylindermantel angeordnet und die Enden der Stäbe (2) an den Rändern des Zylindermantels jeweils mit einem Endring (3, 4) verbunden sind, ausgebildet und in den Behälter (18) integriert ist, - in jedem der Stäbe (2) der Antenne (1) jeweils ein Schaltelement (6) angeordnet ist und - mit der Ladeschaltung (19) in der Antenne (1) abwechselnd ein zirkulares Magnetfeld, wobei die Schaltelemente (6) in einem Geschlossen-Modus betrieben werden, und ein lineares Magnetfeld, wobei die Schaltelemente (6) in einem Offen-Modus betrieben werden, erzeugbar ist. Charger for wireless charging of at least one hearing aid (21 to 25) with a cylindrical container (18), an antenna (1) for generating an alternating magnetic field in the container (18) upon electrical excitation, a charging circuit (19) with which the antenna (1) is electrically excitable, characterized in that - The antenna (1) as a birdcage antenna, in which rods (2) arranged parallel to a cylinder axis on a cylinder jacket and the ends of the rods (2) at the edges of the cylinder jacket are each connected to an end ring (3, 4) formed and integrated in the container (18), - In each of the bars (2) of the antenna (1) each have a switching element (6) is arranged, and - With the charging circuit (19) in the antenna (1) alternately a circular magnetic field, wherein the switching elements (6) are operated in a closed mode, and a linear magnetic field, wherein the switching elements (6) are operated in an open mode , is producible. Ladegerät nach Anspruch 1, wobei jedes Schaltelement (6) eine PIN-Diode ist.A charger according to claim 1, wherein each switching element (6) is a PIN diode. Ladegerät nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei die Ladeschaltung (19) zwei einzelne Quellen (9, 10) und zwei Verstärker (11, 15) umfasst.A charger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the charging circuit (19) comprises two individual sources (9, 10) and two amplifiers (11, 15). Ladegerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Ladeschaltung (19) zwei Anpassnetzwerke (12, 16) umfasst.Charger according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the charging circuit (19) comprises two matching networks (12, 16). Ladegerät nach Anspruch 4, wobei die Quellen (9, 10) gegeneinander um 90° versetzt an den Endringen (3, 4) der Antenne (1) angeschlossen sind.Charger according to claim 4, wherein the sources (9, 10) offset from each other by 90 ° to the end rings (3, 4) of the antenna (1) are connected. Ladegerät nach Anspruch 4 oder 5, wobei die Anpassnetzwerke (12, 16) synchron mit den Schaltelementen (6) geschaltet werden.A charger according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the matching networks (12, 16) are switched in synchronism with the switching elements (6). Ladegerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Ladeschaltung (19) einen Phasenschieber (14) aufweist.Charger according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the charging circuit (19) comprises a phase shifter (14). Ladegerät nach einem der Ansprüche 3 bis 6, wobei die zwei Quellen (9, 10) jeweils einen DDS-Schaltkreis aufweisen.Charger according to one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the two sources (9, 10) each have a DDS circuit. Ladegerät nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei die Ladeschaltung (19) nur eine einzige Quelle aufweist, die über einen Wilkinson-Teiler an die Antenne (1) angeschlossen ist.Charger according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the charging circuit (19) has only a single source which is connected via a Wilkinson divider to the antenna (1). Verfahren zum drahtlosen Laden mindestens eines Hörgeräts (21 bis 25 durch - Bereitstellen eines zylindrischen Behälters (18), in den eine Birdcage-Antenne (1), bei der Stäbe (2) parallel zu einer Zylinderachse auf einem Zylindermantel angeordnet und die Enden der Stäbe (2) an den Rändern des Zylindermantels jeweils mit einem Endring (3, 4) verbunden sind, integriert ist, wobei in jedem der Stäbe (2) der Birdcage-Antenne (1) jeweils ein Schaltelement (6) angeordnet ist, - Einbringen des Hörgeräts (21 bis 25) in den Behälter (18), - abwechselndes Erzeugen eines zirkular polarisierten Magnetfelds, wobei die Schaltelemente (6) in einem Geschlossen-Modus betrieben werden, und eines linear polarisierten Magnetfelds, wobei die Schaltelemente (6) in einem Offen-Modus betrieben werden, in der Birdcage-Antenne (1) und - Laden des Hörgeräts (21 bis 25) in mindestens einem der beiden Felder. A method for wireless charging of at least one hearing aid (21 to 25 through - Providing a cylindrical container (18), in which a birdcage antenna (1) arranged at the rods (2) parallel to a cylinder axis on a cylinder jacket and the ends of the rods (2) at the edges of the cylinder jacket, each with an end ring (3, 4) is integrated, wherein in each of the bars (2) of the birdcage antenna (1) is arranged in each case a switching element (6), Inserting the hearing device (21 to 25) into the container (18), alternately generating a circularly polarized magnetic field, wherein the switching elements (6) are operated in a closed mode, and a linearly polarized magnetic field, wherein the switching elements (6) are operated in an open mode, in the birdcage antenna (1) and - Loading the hearing aid (21 to 25) in at least one of the two fields.
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DK2899845T3 (en) 2019-01-02
EP2899845B1 (en) 2018-09-05
US20150208180A1 (en) 2015-07-23
CN104796838B (en) 2019-11-05
DE102014201118A1 (en) 2015-07-23
CN104796838A (en) 2015-07-22
US9712925B2 (en) 2017-07-18

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